Employing Refugees

Kyoei oneself and others through the refugee employment: strategic employment of foreign nationals

Sakae’s activities

To produce added value, we strategically employ excellent core workers for the company. Since 2012, we have focused on developing a project that maintains a focus on employing migrant workers for a better cultural understanding, and not for exploitation. In this project, migrant workers are expected to develop an understanding of Japanese manufacturing technologies. The first stage of the project encourages the employment of refugees.

The migrant workers of Sakae are not required to speak Japanese, but do need English language skills and a strong will to live in Japan. Although we have experienced some cultural misunderstandings in the past, inclusion of the refugees into Sakae has brought many positive changes at work. For example, one of our team leaders posted a notice translated to English, recognising the importance of doing so.

The ripple effects to the region

Following the project for migrant workers, a study group for the strategic employment of migrant workers was established. The primary purpose of the group is to discuss and examine the possibility of effectively using migrant workers for industrial recovery. The group consists of volunteer members from local industries, universities, NPOs, international associations and government institutions. The discussion topics cover how firms can involve local communities to strategically deploy migrant workers in the regions.

Working with NPOs

The project has faced a variety of challenges. Working with the JAR, we attempted to provide solutions to the problems and ensure safe and stable recruitment/employment opportunities for both local firms and the refugees. In 2013, through a project initiated by the Welfare and Medical Service Agency, Sakae’s staff members joined a preparatory course to understand the working conditions of refugees in Japan.

The preparatory course facilitated a discussion of what to expect from employers in Japan, without actually forcing refugee workers to follow Japan’s work culture.

An on-site visit and on-the-job training are also effective methods to enhance mutual understanding between employers and employees. Potential refugee workers can actually see the working environment, and employers can see if the workers are able to meet the needs of the firm. These arrangements ensure safe and sound employment opportunities.

Sakae for foundry, refugee employment has become a major step leading to the growth of your company